West Quarry

History of the West Quarry

Previously known as the Fishing Quarry, in April 2026 the Town of St. Marys kicked off the West Quarry Enhancements Project. The goal of this project was to improve site safety, address invasive species, reduce long-term liabilities, and prepare the area for future passive recreational use.

In July 2026, the Town reopened the West Quarry for public use. From April to early July, work included removing approximately 900 cubic meters of waste concrete and 7500 pounds of hazard waste steel material, clearing overgrowth, improving water access, installing scenic fencing, and restoring portions of the site as open greenspace. 

Town Council also approved By-law 28-2026, being a By-law to prohibit and regulate activities at the St. Marys Quarries. The By-law to allows for the use of human-powered watercraft, such as canoes, kayaks and paddleboards, as well as fishing at the West Quarry between dawn and dusk. Swimming remains prohibited, and visitors are asked to follow all posted rules and safety signage while using the area.

West Quarry Usage

Fishing

Off-shore fishing is permitted at the West Quarry April 1 – November 30 between dawn and dusk. 

Information courtesy of Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA): 

The main fish species found in the quarry are Common Carp, Pumpkinseed and Rock Bass. The fish are able to migrate between the west quarry fishing hole across the street and the quarry through the underwater tunnel connecting the two. In an open watercourse, species like Common Carp and Pumpkinseed would move to warmer portions of that waterbody. However, they are still able to survive in the colder water temperatures found in the Quarry.

The Common Carp is a large, deep-bodied fish, varying in colour from silver to olive-green, brass or grey on the back and sides. It has whisker-like appendages called barbels near the corners of its mouth. Native to Asia, carp were introduced to North America from non-native populations in Europe. Common Carp adapt to a variety of conditions, tolerating all types of bottoms and water clarity ranging from clear to murky.

The Pumpkinseed is a very deep-bodied, laterally compressed, almost disk-like fish. The fish’s breast and belly are orange to red-orange, and its back and sides are brown to olive. Its sides and back are speckled with orange, yellow, blue, and emerald spots. Pumpkinseeds can be found in large schools and often make up the largest portion of the fish population in small, warm bodies of water. Part of the sunfish family, the Pumpkinseed is native to eastern North America.

The Rock Bass is a small and very deep-bodied fish. Its back and upper sides are brown to olive with golden tints, and often with dark saddles. It has a large red eye and its mouth is large and extends backwards to below the middle of the eye. The Rock Bass is part of the sunfish family and can be found swimming with other sunfish and bass. It is a cool-water fish native to Ontario.

Human-Powered Watercraft

Under new By-law, the use of human-powered watercraft is permitted from dawn through dusk. Human-powered watercraft refers to boats or vessels propelled solely by human effort, using pedals, oars, or paddles. Examples include kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards. Paddlers are required to follow all applicable federal watercraft regulations, including wearing a property fitted life jacket and carrying a safety kit. Paddlers are also reminded to be mindful of other visitors enjoying the area. Please note there is no official designated dock/launching point at the West Quarry. 

Passive Recreation

The West Quarry provides a wonderful view of the Thames River on one side, with the Quarry on the other. With the Riverview Walkway running adjacent to the space, it serves as a great spot for birdwatching, nature walks, photography, picnicking, and jogging. 

Swimming

Swimming is prohibited in the West Quarry. For quarry swimming please visit townofstmarys.com/quarry